Felicia,

I want to say thank you for putting into words something that has been emerging into my consciousness for a few years. On the other hand, I don’t want to thank you because I don’t want to acknowledge its reality.

Having had one or two best girlfriends all my life who were much more necessary to my existence than any boys or men I got involved with, I’ve had a hard time facing that now, at 64 years old, those are mostly memories. When I see them in person, they fail to fill the empty spot in my heart that I reserved for them.

Recently, I faced the reality of the need to move out of my geographic location. I was targeted by a gang that preys upon older senior women who live alone, and the local police are no help. My children begged me to move, and after being jumped in my driveway late one night with a gun to my head until I unresistingly handed over my purse, I saw the wisdom of their advice.

I decided to move about 70 miles away from where I have lived all my life, which will put me much closer to the two “best friends” I mentioned above, but I’m afraid. I’m afraid they already have enough filling up their days that they won’t have (or make) room for me. I’m afraid they will be bored with me. I’m afraid they have secretly moved on past me already and I will find that out only when I’m living in their neighborhood.

If that happens, I suppose I can pursue new friendships. But at this age, it’s little comfort while giving up friendships that began 40 years ago.

Thank you for the story.

Sharon